Ngamba Island sanctuary is a safe haven for orphaned and confiscated chimps, usually rescued from illegal bushmeat and pet trade. These chimps, once rescued are usually traumatized and the work of the sanctuary is to provide a safe and semi natural environment for them to recover and thrive and be able to have long and happy lives. This is possible thanks to the commitment given by a dedicated team of caregivers, volunteers, veterinary doctors and other island staff: every hour, all year round.

About the Sanctuary:

Ngamba Island Sanctuary was founded in 1998. The sanctuary is currently home to 50 chimpanzees.  It is located on 95 acres of natural forest where chimps meander and feed freely on a daily basis. However the chimps’ diet is supplemented various times a day. Feeding time is a delight to visitors on the island, who can observe the chimps as they feed; from a viewing platform. In addition to supplementary feeding, there are night time enclosures where chimps can build their night nests and be able to receive an evening meal. However, this is not mandatory. The chimpanzees have the freedom to stay in the forest at night.

Why was the sanctuary founded?

• The main goal of the sanctuary is to provide a safe home for rescued chimpanzees while at the same time caring for the environment and other wildlife on the island.
• To provide a high quality educational and informative experience for visitors
• To benefit local communities (jobs, income etc)

Location of Ngamba Island – the sanctuary for chimpanzees:

Ngamba Island is one of the Koome Islands on Lake Victoria. It is approximately 23 km Southeast of Entebbe. The island is about 100 acres big, but 95 of these are forest cover and home to the rescued chimps.

Experience Ngamba Island:

Ngamba Island sanctuary is home to rescued chimps and other wildlife species including fruit bats, fish eagles, otters, monitor lizards, etc. A visit to the island will give you a first hand experience on what it takes to care for the 50 chimpanzees living on the sanctuary.  Learn how they eat and how they socialize. Learn about the conservation efforts and how you can contribute. It will also be a perfect opportunity to meet the amazing team who care for these amazing animals.

How to Get to the Island:

Water transport in form on boats can help you get to the island. There are many different types of boats catering to various groups and budgets. Boats can be booked through the Ngamba Reservation Office or through a reputable tour operator.

Boat on Lake Victoria to Ngamba Island (Photo by Ngamba Island Sanctuary)

It takes about 45 -50 minutes to get to the island if travelling by speed boat while motorized canoes take about 90 minutes. If travelling by air and flying from Entebbe or Kajjansi, then you will be at Ngamba in 20 minutes. Chartered boats for large groups and events are also available for reservation.

Note: entrance tickets to island are pre-purchased at the Ngamba Island Reservations Office (Entebbe town) and must be shown upon arrival at the island. Bookings must be made in advance to ensure availability.

Tour Packages at Ngamba Island Sanctuary:

If you are visiting Uganda, the pearl of Africa, then a visit to the Ngamba Chimpanzee sanctuary must not be missed. It is an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. There are different tours depending on one’s budget and interests.

1 Day Chimpanzee Visit:

Half day or full day chimpanzee visits are available. Take a boat cruise to Ngamba Island chimpanzee sanctuary and get to marvel at the chimpanzees as they feed. You will also be treated t other wildlife sights like the monitor lizard and many birds species. Great scenery, many photo moments. Boats leave at 9:00AM or 12:45PM.

visitors at the sanctuary (Photo by Ngamba Island Sanctuary)

3-Days Ngamba Chimpanzee Safari

Ngamba Chimpanzee Island is one of Uganda’s best tourism destinations. The 3 day safari is ideal for small group tours. The guided tours will provide unforgettable wildlife encounters, cultural interactions and overnight stays in comfortable cottages.

Fishing Cruises on Lake Victoria:

Is fishing your favourite sport? Then this is the best time to experience it at Ngamba Island. You will have a chance to see the Nile Perch, one of the biggest freshwater fish in Uganda.

3-Days Honeymoon Package:

Every honeymoon should be special and full of unique and unforgettable experiences. So why not spend it at the Ngamba Sanctuary. Relax, and enjoy the environment, surrounded by the chimps! Enjoy private candle lit dinners, campfires, sunset cruises with the stunning Lake Victoria at the backdrop!

It is easy to incorporate at least one of these packages into your Uganda tour schedule. It will be enriching and you will have contributed to the conservation efforts of the sanctuary.

Volunteering:

This is for visitors who would love to stay longer that the sanctuary. Contact Ngamba Island for more information

Activities at Ngamba Island Sanctuary:

• Chimpanzee Viewing Experience: Day visitors get to see the chimps feed and interact. Visitors stand on a raised viewing platform for a great viewing experience.
• Bird watching
• Experience other wildlife encounters
• Swimming and photo moment at the Equator (on Lake Victoria)
• Visit a neighboring fishing village
• Fishing
• Sunset / boat cruises for overnight guests
• Community cultural experiences
• Craft shopping at the Island gift shop

A visit to Ngamba Island can be added onto your tour activity schedule if visiting Uganda. Most visitors opt to do the half or full day chimpanzee viewing. School Day visits are also available. The sanctuary also offers Family Nature Days (adventures for family groups). Ngamba Island makes a perfect tour destination for families as there are no age restrictions.